Here’s a recipe inspired by your ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
Ingredients:
- 4 large chicken breasts (about 4 lbs total)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 bottles of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce (12 oz each)
- 1 brick of cream cheese (8 oz)
- 8 oz Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 box of pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and add the diced onion on top.
- Pour the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken and onions.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes and add it to the crockpot with the shredded chicken. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and well combined with the chicken and sauce.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the crockpot with the chicken and sauce.
- Stir everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed throughout.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and chicken mixture.
- Serve the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
This creamy and flavorful pasta dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table! Enjoy!
Achieving the perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta requires attention to detail and a few key secrets:
- Brown the Chicken: Before adding the chicken to the slow cooker, consider browning it in a skillet with a little olive oil. This step adds extra flavor and texture to the chicken.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: While dried herbs can work well, using fresh garlic, onions, and herbs whenever possible will enhance the flavors of the dish.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasonings accordingly. You may want to add more garlic, Parmesan, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep a close eye on the pasta towards the end of the cooking time. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the texture of the dish. Aim for al dente pasta, which still has a slight bite to it.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Certain pasta shapes work better in slow cooker dishes than others. Shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine hold up well to long cooking times without becoming too soft.
- Add Ingredients Gradually: Layering flavors is key in slow cooking. Add the ingredients in stages, starting with the sauce, then the chicken, and finally the pasta. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Stir Occasionally: If possible, give the ingredients a gentle stir occasionally during the cooking process. This helps to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavors.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs and Cheese: Just before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese over the dish. This adds a burst of freshness and enhances the cheesy flavor.
By following these secrets, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta every time!
Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers related to Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Keep in mind that chicken thighs may have a slightly different cooking time and texture.
- Can I use low-fat ingredients to make this dish healthier?
- While you can use low-fat alternatives like reduced-fat Parmesan cheese or half-and-half, keep in mind that they may affect the overall flavor and creaminess of the dish.
- Can I cook the pasta separately and add it later?
- Yes, if you prefer, you can cook the pasta separately according to the package instructions and then add it to the slow cooker just before serving. This can help prevent the pasta from becoming overcooked.
- How long does leftovers of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta last?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce if needed.
- Can I freeze Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
- While you can freeze leftovers, keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. Store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
- Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Yes, you can add vegetables like diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or spinach to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are chopped small or thinly sliced so they cook evenly.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- While Parmesan cheese adds a classic flavor to this dish, you can experiment with other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary.